This page covers 2 recalls, 29 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2017 Kia Rio.
30–31 mpg combined
7.6–7.8 L/100km
Compact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
For the 2017 Kia Rio, engine and brake complaints make up the bulk of what owners report. On the engine side, owners describe sudden violent shaking at highway speeds, loud mechanical noises from the engine compartment, and smoke entering the cabin, several accounts involve what sounds like an abrupt internal failure while driving. Brake complaints center on hydraulic brake system issues, with some owners reporting that braking effectiveness was lost in the same event as an engine problem, and others describing difficulty getting repairs completed due to parts availability for the hydraulic electronic control unit. The two airbag complaints don't show a clear shared pattern. The parts availability issue comes up more than once in the brake complaint set, with owners describing extended waits stretching into months despite being told a remedy was available.
29
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
5
Fire-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2017 Kia Rio has 2 recalls, the most serious being a fire risk tied to the anti-lock brake control module, which can ignite an engine compartment fire whether the vehicle is parked or in motion.
The second recall involves the trunk latch, where the latch base can crack and prevent the interior trunk release from working. This means someone inside the trunk compartment could become trapped and unable to get out.
At a glance
What can fail
The hydraulic electronic control unit may short electrically, potentially causing an engine compartment fire while the vehicle is parked or driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the HECU fuse at no charge to restore proper electrical function.
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The trunk latch base can crack, which may prevent you from opening the trunk from inside the vehicle.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
